Assembly, system, and method for optimizing image quality

Abstract

An assembly, system, and method particularly adapted for a magnetic resonator apparatus in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning system. Provided is a restraining assembly supportable by the supporting assembly and including at least a system that is selectively operable for positioning and restraining at least a portion of the body to be imaged, thereby optimizing image quality.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to the field of medical imaging and, more particularly, to an assembly, system, and method particularly adapted for a magnetic resonator apparatus in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning system.[0002]MRI is a non-invasive procedure utilized to obtain images of anatomical features for diagnostic purposes. The images are formed when signals emitted by body tissue are analyzed and converted to medical images. MRI has necessitated the use of specifically designed system components, such as a portable birdcage imaging resonator, etc. Specifically, MRI depicts parameters associated with nuclear spins (typically hydrogen protons associated with water in tissue) that are considered of value in medical diagnostics in determining the state of health of tissue in a region examined. Successful MRI techniques have also been extended to in vivo spectroscopy of elements such as phosphorus and carbon, thereby providing ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005]The present invention provides enhanced assembly, systems and methods for properly positioning and restraining a patient with respect to a magnetic resonance imaging unit without negative effect and that overcomes many of the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0008]In a preferred illustrated embodiment, the assembly includes a targeting mechanism, which facilitates positioning the specific body portion of interest to be relative to the radiofrequency elements of the supporting assembly.

[0009]An aspect of the present invention is an assembly, system, and method that are particularly adapted for automatically positioning body portions within a magnetic resonance imaging unit, whereby image quality is enhanced.

[0010]Another aspect of the present invention is to achieve the foregoing in an expeditious, economical, and reliable manner.

[0011]Another aspect of this invention is to achieve the foregoing in a manner that minimizes patient discomfort.

Problems solved by technology

However, technologists must still obtain and retain proper patient positioning.

This is more problematic when using the portable units.

Otherwise, inadvertent movement and / or contact with the portable unit might degrade image quality.

It will be appreciated that known approaches are relatively time consuming and tedious.

In addition, they may be highly uncomfortable for patients with injuries.

Without satisfying the above, the true potential of medical imaging will not be fully realized.

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